Science City in Kansas City at Union Station

by Erin Huiatt

Science City at Union Station in Kansas City

When our family travels I am always looking to see if there is a children’s museum, science center, or zoo nearby. Over the years we have explored and experienced many. Our trip to Kansas City was no different! It had been many years since we visited the Science City at the Union Station Kansas City. Our first visit was when the kids were super young, but I quickly realized kids of all ages (including myself!) could play and learn so much from the variety of interactive science exhibits.

In addition to Science City the entire area is filled with days of fun. You can easily book a long weekend in the area and explore all the things using The Link between the Union Station and Crown Center. Take a look at all the fun details and tips to keep in mind when you visit Science City at Union Station in Kansas City and everything nearby.

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Science City Location

Science City is located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri in Kansas City’s Union Station. This whole area is filled with tons of fun and is connected to Crown Center via the climate-controlled The Link. It is a great place to play all year round.

Exhibits

The whole area is filled with individual interactive exhibits that will keep your child busy for hours. Some popular ones include the Maker Studio, Science of Energy, SkyBike, All Aboard, Simple Machines at Play (outdoors), Dig Site and Dino Lab, and so many more. Take a look at a list of exhibits that include descriptions and age ranges they are best for.

Simple Machines at Play located outside.

Daily Programming

Science City (and the Union Station) offers daily programs for families. Their onsite curriculum-based programs offer STEM education and more. Before you make your visit take a look at the schedule and plan accordingly so you can make the most of your visit.

Science City Hours and Admission Prices

Regular Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday from Noon to 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

Admission: $16.50 per person. Children 12 months and under are Free. Purchase tickets before you go.

Are you a Science Center of Iowa member? You get in free!

The Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium

While you are exploring the amazing world of science make sure you catch a show at the plantarium. Tickets to see a show are additional but worth it. Check the showing schedule and do not miss this fun experience.

City Extreme Screen Theatre

Before you leave the Union Station and Science City for the day make sure you catch a movie at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre. They are always showing box office hits the whole family will enjoy.

KC Rail Experience

If you have a train-loving child you do not want to miss the KC Rail Experience located in the Union Station. This exhibit/experience takes you through the historical significance of railroading and its significance to the city. There is a model train exhibit, explore the Freight House Pedestrian Bridge, and more. This experience ties into the All Aboard Exhibit at Science City.

Crown Center and The Link

After you explore Science City and the Union Station The Link across to Crown Center, eat lunch, and do more exploring. Crown Center offers tons of shopping and restaurants. You can also wander outside across the street. Depending on the time of year, the fountains may be on, there may be holiday decor, an ice skating rink, and more. LEGOland and Sea Life Aquarium are also located in the area. The Crown Center also offers special events and exhibits throughout the year. When we made our visit they had a free Journey to Oz exhibit open we had fun exploring. Take a look at all the fun things to see and do at Crown Center before visiting.

Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant

No visit is complete without a stop for lunch at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant. The kids love that you place your order over the phone and a train delivers your food directly to you! Even as an adult, I love it.